Wickens Industrial Portable Compressed Air Preparation Unit
CO2 Blasting equipment requires a source of cool, clean, dry air. Portable diesel compressors need help to provide this quality of air.
At Wickens Industrial we soon recognized the need to provide a system to modify the air coming from rental diesel compressors.
The air from a diesel compressor is HOT. Generally the outlet temperature of a diesel compressor will be 100° F hotter than ambient. On an 80° F day it will be 180° F. That temperature will rapidly deteriorate not only standard air hoses but also the diaphragms and seals within the equipment.
Second, the air will be WET. As the compressor pulls in the air from the atmosphere it is also pulling all the humidity with it. The combination of high humidity and high temperature results in hot air that is super saturated with moisture.
Third, the air will contain OIL from the lubrication system of the compressor. Although the compressor has an air/oil separator it is really designed to conserve the oil for the compressor not remove the oil for the consuming appliances. For most equipment used with diesel compressors this is not a problem but blast equipment does not tolerate excessive oil in the air supply.
A Versatile Performer
As one of the largest contractors in North America using CO2 blasting equipment with diesel compressors, Wickens Industrial recognized the need for a simple, easy to use and portable air preparation system. Ten years of trial and error has resulted in the system we now offer for sale.
The hot, wet, oily air from the compressor is first passed through a high efficiency air to air heat exchanger to cool the air down to just above ambient. Next, the air passes through an air/oil separator with integral filter and auto drain. A portion of this air is then used to drive an air motor fan through a motor controller filter/regulator/oiler system and the rest is ready for blasting.
The unit has been sized to supply air to two machines from one compressor.
A Rugged Unit
The unit is completely portable. A frame made of powder coated steel tubing completely encloses and protects the heat exchanger and components. All pneumatic operation eliminates the need for electrical power. Heavy 8" ball bearing wheels enable easy movement across the roughest terrain.
Minimal Maintenance
The unit is designed for easy access to all components without the inconvenience of disassembly. Its hinged protective panel opens fully for servicing. It only requires periodic replacement of the air filter and the addition of oil to the air motor oiler.
Specifications: Wickens Portable Air Preparation Unit
Dimensions: 24" x 32" x 38" (W x L x H)
Dry Weight: 185 lbs
Air flow rate: to 450 cfm
Air connections: 1 1/2" MNPT